Multiple weather fronts are expected to bring rain and snow to the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, Southeast, mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions ahead of Thanksgiving week, potentially impacting holiday travel plans. As of late Sunday, over 25 million people were under National Weather Service watches and warnings related to winter storm activity, including wind, flooding, and freezing conditions. Severe weather, including thunderstorms and possible tornadoes, was forecasted for West Texas. Flooding was expected in parts of the central and southern Plains.
An atmospheric river is predicted to bring heavy rain and snow to Oregon and Northern California early in the week. Following this, waves of low pressure are expected to spread across the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast bringing colder temperatures and the chance for snow. An upper-level low pressure system developing above the Great Lakes and the Northeast is expected to bring cooler temperatures and the chance for rain and snow. Forecasters predict that the East Coast will see cooler, wetter weather in the second half of the week.
Looking ahead to Thanksgiving week, federal forecasters predict cooler temperatures, cold rain, and potentially high-elevation snow on the East Coast. The U.S. Climate Prediction Center suggests that some areas may experience above-average rainfall during the holiday week. Despite the weather forecast, there are indications that holiday travel and retail shopping may increase post-pandemic, with American Airlines expecting a record number of passengers and the National Retail Foundation anticipating a record number of shoppers during the holiday period. It remains uncertain how the weather systems may impact travel and spending plans during Thanksgiving week.
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